Mastercard Launches Web3-Focused Artist Accelerator Program, Offering Free Music Pass NFTs

Mastercard , the global payment processing giant, has launched a new program to support emerging artists in growing their brands using Web3 technology. The Artist Accelerator program includes five artists, each paired with a mentor to help them navigate the world of Web3.

As part of the program, Mastercard is offering Music Pass NFTs that can be minted for free during the first three weeks of launch. These NFTs provide access to exclusive Web3 content that can only be unlocked by those who claim the pass. The content includes educational material and the opportunity to create soundtracks using AI-powered music tools.

The five artists selected for the program are Young Athena, Manu Manzu, LeriQ, Emily Vu, and Cocoa Sarai. These artists come from a range of musical backgrounds, including R&B soul, pop, and Nigerian recording artistry. Each artist will receive guidance from a mentor, who is an expert in the Web3 space.

Mastercard has partnered with Polygon to facilitate the Web3 program. Those interested in claiming the Music Pass NFT must create a Mastercard Artist Accelerator account. The NFT is stored in a blockchain custodial wallet, which will be made transferable to MetaMask wallets in the future.